The midfielder has spent almost a decade with Stoke City after moving to the bet365 Stadium for just £500,000 at the start of 2008, and he made 26 starts in the Premier League last season.

However, it became clear that he did not feature in Mark Hughes’ plans ahead of the next campaign, and the Republic of Ireland international has revealed that he is excited ahead of a new challenge in the West Midlands.

The 33-year-old told the club’s official website: “I have enjoyed happy times at Stoke City but now is the time for a new football adventure – and what a club to join in Aston Villa.

“We may be in the Championship but everything about this club screams Premier League – and it’s the job of the players to get us back up there.

“I am looking forward to working with Steve Bruce . I know he has a phenomenal record in achieving promotion to the top-flight and, having spoken to him at length, I am more than aware of how much he wants to get back there again with this great club.”